Paradoxical air embolus

Paradoxical embolism complicating massive pulmonary embolus.

Paradoxical embolism is an unusual but well recognized complication of venous thromboembolic disease. This case report of a patient with massive pulmonary embolism, who had a paradoxical embolus through a patent foramen ovale, emphasizes that in these circumstances surgical intervention is indicated.

Paradoxical Embolus Stuck in a Patent Foramen Ovale

In-hospital mortality rate of an embolus in transit is as high as 44.7%. In some cases, a paradoxical embolus can get stuck in a patent foramen ovale. Because of the high mortality rate, this condition should be considered as an emergency case. Echocardiography has been established as the gold standard method for the diagnosis. A negative echocardiography, however, does not rule out an embolus ...

Presumed paradoxical embolus in a patient with diabetic ketoacidosis.

Thrombotic complications figure among the most frequent causes of mortality in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar state. We report the case of a 55-year-old woman presenting with DKA whereby a newly discovered patent foramen ovale was found due in part to the observation of bilateral deep vein thrombosis in legs, bilateral multiple pulmonary embolisms, and left subclavian acute artery...

Carotid embolectomy in the treatment of a paradoxical embolus.

Development of a paradoxical embolus to the carotid circulation through a patent foramen ovale is uncommon but well documented. Previous surgical experience with this entity is limited. Treatment for this condition typically involves anticoagulation or the use of an inferior vena cava filter with concurrent closure of the patent foramen itself. We report successful surgical treatment of a woman...

Non-fatal paradoxical air embolism.